Authorities say fatal shooting near Solomun’s Tehmplo event may be related to drug trafficking

Authorities investigate deadly shooting near Solomun’s Tehmplo event in Tulum as attendees report fear and chaos.

Authorities in Mexico are investigating a fatal shooting near Solomun’s Tehmplo event in Tulum on January 8th, which officials say may be linked to drug trafficking. The victim was identified as a local worker. Reports from local news stated this was the first death of 2026 in the area. No arrests have been reported.

Attendees described a tense atmosphere after news of the shooting spread. Some social media posts claimed the incident occurred on festival grounds, while officials maintain it was offsite. Reports of heavy police presence added to the uncertainty, leaving many feeling uneasy.

The festival lineup featured Max Styler from midnight to 2 am, followed by Solomun from 2 am onward. Videos from the crowd show both artist performing a back to back set at 11 am, indicating the event continued into the next day. Solomun has a history of extended performances. Just a few years ago, he refused to stop playing after a 9 hour run in Tulum.

Much discussion has played out online, with attendees taking to reddit and social media to share their reflections. Some reported hearing gunshots and describing chaos as people scattered for safety. There is also speculation that those not near the incident many not have even known anything occurred as the music went on without disruption.

Neither Solomun nor event organizers have publicly addressed the shooting, leaving eyewitness accounts and online posts as the primary source of information. Attendees have been piecing together events from various reports, creating a cloud of speculation around the incident.

As a result, this shooting has sparked conversations about safety in Tulum‘s electronic music events, with calls for transparency from organizers and officials. Incidents like this can make even seasoned festival goers think twice as concerns for safety grow.

About The Author

Alejandra Benitez

My name is Alejandra Benitez and I was born and raised in the DMV. Having close proximity to Washington D.C. means I am accustomed to a fast paced environment as things are constantly changing. For me, the EDM scene has provided so much comfort and space to really find myself even amongst chaos. My first ever show was Zeds Dead and it truly changed my outlook on community and further affirmed my love for music. I am a basshead at heart but enjoy exploring new genres and artists. Being a writer for Exron has given me an amazing opportunity to learn more about the electronic music industry and I love being able to express myself creatively. Some of my favorite artists include Levity, Rezz, Tape B, Disco Lines, and Sub Focus.

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